LA Direct Models, a talent agency for pornographic performers, has expanded its representation to include directors and makeup artists. This move aims to broaden the agency's services within the adult industry, with Alan Eigen being the first director signed under this new initiative.
Agency Expansion and New Offerings
LA Direct Models, founded in 2000 by pornographic actor Derek Hay, has historically focused on representing pornographic performers. The agency now represents production professionals, including directors and makeup artists. The agency's news website, L.A. Direct News, announced this development, noting that Alan Eigen is the initial director to join this new division. The announcement also indicated that more directors are expected to be signed in the near future.
The agency's website has undergone design modifications to accommodate the new links associated with these expanded services. This strategic expansion positions LA Direct Models to offer a more comprehensive range of talent for adult film production.
LA Direct Models: A Brief History
LA Direct Models began its operations in London, initially booking adult film work in the United States for British female performers. In 2001, due to increasing demand, Derek Hay and Hannah Harper relocated the agency's headquarters to Los Angeles, California. The agency's offices were initially in a one-bedroom apartment before moving to the Cahuenga Pass in Hollywood, sharing a building with adult film producer Vivid Entertainment. In the fall of 2014, LA Direct Models opened a new office in Las Vegas, Nevada, and subsequently moved out of the Vivid building.
The agency represents approximately 130 female and 30 male performers. Notable performers represented by LA Direct Models include Tori Black, Kagney Linn Karter, Alexis Texas, and Lexi Belle. In 2005, Havana Ginger became the agency's first contract performer, and in 2008, Kimber James joined as their first transsexual performer. Also in 2008, LA Direct Models collaborated with Lisa Ann Talent Management and The Lee Network to form a network for handling feature dancer bookings.
In 2008, the agency launched L.A. Direct News, an adult entertainment news website. As of 2020, the agency and Derek Hay have faced several allegations, including sexual abuse, trafficking, and employment standards violations.
The Role of Makeup Artists in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is recognized as a central hub for the entertainment industry, attracting aspiring artists, including makeup artists, from various locations. The city has more beauty schools than any other metropolitan area in the U.S., leading to a competitive environment for makeup professionals. Professional makeup artists in Los Angeles often source their supplies from specialized beauty stores, many of which are not widely known to the general public. These stores, often located in the San Fernando Valley, cater to makeup lovers, professional makeup artists, makeup students, and industry insiders, offering a wide array of products including FX makeup, wigs, brushes, and palettes used on set.
The inclusion of makeup artists in LA Direct Models' representation roster highlights the agency's move to encompass a broader spectrum of production roles essential to the adult entertainment industry.
Key Facts
- LA Direct Models now represents directors and makeup artists.
- Alan Eigen is the first director signed under this new initiative.
- LA Direct Models was founded in 2000 by Derek Hay.
- The agency's website, ladirectmodels.com, has been updated to reflect the new services.
- LA Direct Models also operates an adult entertainment news website, L.A. Direct News, launched in 2008.
- The agency represents approximately 130 female and 30 male performers.
